Anybody who has ever had a loved one who has dealt with cancer knows the feelings of helplessness and fear that can occur upon a diagnosis. But when it comes to a child being diagnosed, that’s a whole other level of devastation. Due to today’s technology, more than 80 percent of kids with cancer now survive for five years or more. Still, pediatric cancer is the second leading cause of death in people younger than 15 years of age. Here are the major types of cancer that affect children and what to do if your son or daughter is ever diagnosed. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia This is the most common type of cancer in kids and accounts for more than 30 percent of all pediatric cases. Symptoms include bones and joint pain, fever, weight loss, weakness, and bleeding. Brain Tumors This makes up about 27 percent of childhood cancers. Signs include headaches, balance issues, vision or hearing problems and frequent vomiting. Wilms Tumor Wilms tumors occur in the kidneys and cause swelling of the belly, fever, pain, and poor appetite. The disease is typically found in kids that are ages three to four. When Your Child has Cancer Dealing with a diagnosis of cancer can be very, very tough to do. There will be many emotions that will run through your head. Some things to keep in mind when you first receive the diagnosis are: It will be a crisis for the entire family Ways to improve coping include getting help from a support group or cancer team, involving others and taking the time to care for yourself Get a second...

Meditation is known to have a positive effect on the emotional and psychological impact cancer has on its survivors. Some recent studies have also suggested that mindfulness also strongly impacts the physical bodies of cancer survivors, with effects extending to a cellular level. According to researchers at the Alberta Health Services and the University of Calgary, breast cancer patients that practice meditation experience positive cellular changes within their bodies. The study shows that telomeres were longer in the group of women who participated in mindfulness compared with survivors who didn’t undergo these interventions. What is Meditation? Meditation is an age-old practice from the eastern world that helps people to stay aware in the present moment. Regular practice leads to clarity, insight, serenity, and improves the wellbeing of the mind and body. There are many different forms of mediations that can help cancer patients; from mindful meditation, to meditation that relives stress and anxiety. How to Meditate Find a comfortable position on the floor. You can use a mat or cushion to help prop your body up. Sit cross-legged and place your hands on your lap. Focus on your breath. Count for every inhale you take. If your mind begins to wander, allow it to, but gently pull your attention back to the breath. If you find that meditating alone is difficult, find a group that hosts guided meditation practices. Many hospitals offer these types of services to help cancer patients and survivors. A Lifetime of Help Here at LifeCredit, we want you to not only be mindful of your life, but mindful of your finances. That is why we...